2009 Teacher of the Year - Sharon Gallagher-Fishbaugh

"Sharon is not only a remarkable teacher ", said the Salt Lake City District Superintendent, McKell Withers, "she is a leader, mentor, and advocate for others. She is a dedicated and thoughtful public school educator that will work hard to assist all students and to advocate for public schools in all
settings. "

Sharon's desire to become a teacher has been nurtured and influenced by the teachings of many extraordinary people along the way and the dreams and goals she had as a child. These lessons came from her parents and teachers who always expected the best from her, her colleagues whose continual collaboration and example make her want to be a better teacher and her students who bring their unbridled enthusiasm for learning, a keen sense of community and family, a true example of what it means to love one another, and boundless energy to her classroom.

During a holiday break, a student mentioned to his mother, "Mom, do you remember when we went on a long trip last year and I missed our house?", "Yes", the mother said, "you said I was homesick. Well, I am wondering, is it possible to be schoolsick?" Initially, the mother was dismayed that her young son, who two nights previous slept fitfully in anticipation of Christmas morning, was already bored with his new toys and ready to return to school, but as the conversation continued, the young boy shared, "I'm happy because of the holidays but I really miss my classroom and I really miss Mrs. Gallagher."

Sharon speaks about an inspiring student diagnosed with a learning disability, and who struggled with reading, he came running up to her on the last day of school, and said, "Thank you for making me feel smart!" Sharon says it is the culmination of thousands of small moments, which have positively impacted a child's life that are her greatest contributions and accomplishments.

During a holiday break, a student mentioned to his mother, "Mom, do you remember when we went on a long trip last year and I missed our house?", "Yes", the mother said, "you said I was homesick. Well, I am wondering, is it possible to be schoolsick?" Initially, the mother was dismayed that her young son, who two nights previous slept fitfully in anticipation of Christmas morning, was already bored with his new toys and ready to return to school, but as the conversation continued, the young boy shared, "I'm happy because of the holidays but I really miss my classroom and I really miss Mrs. Gallagher."

Sharon speaks about an inspiring student diagnosed with a learning disability, and who struggled with reading, he came running up to her on the last day of school, and said, "Thank you for making me feel smart!" Sharon says it is the culmination of thousands of small moments, which have positively impacted a child's life that are her greatest contributions and accomplishments.

All the 2009 State Teachers of the Year with President and First Lady Obama at the Rose Garden where each teacher was honored individually by the President. Sharon is on the first row, 3rd from the left!